Menstrual conditions

Women may experience a variety of menstrual conditions throughout their life, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The below links contain information regarding certain menstrual conditions that women may experience.

Premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common condition that affects many women during their menstrual cycle, usually before they begin menstruating. Approximately 85% of women in their reproductive years experience PMS. The symptoms of PMS may vary woman to woman; some women may experience PMS symptoms for a few hours, while others may have them for several days. There are a variety of symptoms that women with PMS may experience, including irritability, depression, constipation, bloating, acne, or headache. A woman who thinks she may be experiencing PMS should speak to her health care provider.

It may be possible to prevent PMS, or lessen the symptoms. Prevention strategies include exercising three to five days a week, eating a well-balanced diet, and getting plenty of sleep. For women who experience PMS, there are a variety of treatment options; some may work better for some women compared with others. Treatment options include exercising, anti-inflammatory medications, anti-pain medications, vitamins, diet changes, and oral contraceptives. Women with PMS should speak to their health care provider to determine which treatment options will be best for them.

Stay
connected! Check out University Health Service's Facebook and UK HealthCare's
YouTube and Twitter space and stay up-to-date on community events, programs,
treatments, research, new physicians and more.